First Earth: A YA Fantasy Adventure to a Magic Planet

Arch Mage #1

by Cami Murdock Jensen

Scarred and reviled. She’s the only hope for a magical world… and ours.

Sixteen-year-old Agnes Ann Cavanaugh hates mirrors and herself. Horribly disfigured as a baby and constantly battling chronic pain, she trusts only two people: her mom and the blind author who offered her an internship. But as she’s translating an ancient tablet for him, she triggers an attack by terrifying monsters that catapults her into an enchanted realm.

Barely able to catch her breath, she meets a strange old man and his talking cat who claim she’s a wizard destined to save their Earth. But when Agnes magically determines he’s lying about something, her wariness warns her she needs to get home. Yet, if she doesn’t master her latent abilities to defeat an evil necromancer, her own planet is as doomed as the one she hopes to escape.

Will Agnes protect the people that desperately need her, or is this the end of life as she knows it?

First Earth is Book One in the fast-paced Arch Mage YA fantasy series. If you like wondrous creatures, heart-racing adventures, and underdog protagonists like Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson the Lightning Thief, then you’ll love Cami Murdock Jensen’s extraordinary journey.

Buy First Earth to discover the greatness within today!

Genres: Fantasy, Science Fiction, Adventure, Supernatural, Middle Grade

Kindle Edition

First published June 27, 2019

About the author

Multi-award winning author, Cami Murdock Jensen grew up in Spanish Fork, Utah, fostering two passions: science and the fine arts. As a senior in high school, she won the Sterling Scholar in science and cloned DNA to compete on the state level. One year later, she wrote the score for her first children’s musical, "Robin Hood: Tales of Ye Merry Wood", which she later published. She has since dedicated years to teaching, writing, composing, and directing, as well as studying the genetic defect that runs in her family. Cami has six amazing children who have battled leagues of demons and a husband who is a much better hero than any prince.

Reviews

[Guy Venturi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first place to live is First Earth

But when magical mischief and mayhem bring chaos to the First Earth, Agnes begins discovering just how amazing magical friends can be, even if no one understands her particular type of magic. But she quickly becomes part of the team to defend First, Second, and Fifth Earth from the evil trying to take over. Being able to see magic helps her save the day and then some. Even Grimmal is happy with her help.

[M.L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great read! Entertaining, fast-paced, and imaginative. I loved the descriptions and different types of magic, and the ‘multiple earths’ concept with the super highways (Jent Paths) was interesting. The characters were all well established, and I particularly liked shape-shifting (but only into feline forms) Grimmal. Agnes was a believable protagonist too, and I enjoyed how she developed into her role.

I was hoping that by the end of the book Agnes would see herself as others saw her - scarred, yes, but beautiful - once she became more comfortable in her own skin. The whole scars only healing properly once she accepted herself made me feel that they were supposed to be a reflection of her ‘inner self’, rather than a result of an injury she received as a baby. Though that was my only gripe.

Otherwise, I loved the ending - it was very satisfying, and the fight scenes were great. I have already started the next book in the series and look forward to reading more!

[Darryl Frayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book caught me by surprise. Sometimes a book cover catches my eye; sometimes it’s a blurb or another review. With First Earth, the premise of the young protagonist’s story lured me in to “Look Inside” and read the first few pages. I was hooked right away. Fortunately, I received a full digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

When I told my wife (an elementary school teacher) what I was reading, she too was intrigued. Soon we were reading aloud together. We couldn’t wait for each opportunity to read more.

At the risk of overstatement, I would not be surprised if this series becomes a classic for young readers and cherished bedtime reading for parents and grandparents…assuming it finds its way to enough readers. It’s that good.

First Earth is one of those classic teen/YA fantasy tales with a timeless appeal for adult fantasy lovers too. I found it an entirely enjoyable adventure, very well written with smooth pacing from start to finish. There were times when I smiled at scenes that reminded me of my favorite portal fantasy/alternate reality classics like Alice in Wonderland and The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The diverse and intriguing cast of characters provides an excellent complement for the young protagonist, Agnes, and the enemy that she and her companions battle is complex, dark, and more difficult to defeat than a wicked witch.

First Earth is not the first fantasy novel to include a protagonist who lives with a disability. But what appeals to me about Agnes’ story is that her disability is rooted in a tragic childhood accident. As a result, she has struggled with emotional scars and—especially as a teen—with the ostracism of peers that sometimes comes with physical scars. Her perception of others and herself, her reactions, responses, and dialogue are consistent and believable (not always easy for an adult author to pull off). The degree of healing that Agnes experiences as she learns to accept her natural and magical gifts as well as her disabilities, and the marginal transformation in her self esteem are also believable and wonderfully inspiring.

Agnes is the hero of the story but she’s no superhero. She’s a real-life, down-to-second-earth sixteen-year-old who is instantly likable. Her struggles and victories kept me cheering for her to the end. Thankfully, her story isn’t over. I’m recommending this book whenever I can and am looking forward to reading more in the series as Agnes’ adventures throughout the Jent Paths continue. I’m just not sure if I’ll be able to wait and read aloud with my wife.

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally published on my blog Nonstop Reader.

First Earth is the first book in a new crossworlds fantasy trilogy for teens/tweens by Cami Murdock Jensen. Released 27th June 2019, it's 336 pages and available in hardcover, paperback, and ebook formats.

I was drawn into the story from literally the first page. Protagonist Agnes is intelligent, courageous, and no stranger to challenge. She's not about to trust the first dimension traveling magician she comes across (and his talking cat), even if they did save her from "a homicidal, purple-haired, ghost-woman". The story is well crafted and well told, entertaining, and action filled. I liked the secondary characters very much. It's a rollicking yarn and I'm looking forward to more from this author.

The language is clean and there is no questionable content. I liked that the characters developed and learned to trust one another over the course of the book. There are themes of friendship, cooperation, honesty, trust, and responsibility. There are also dragons and magic and talking multi-dimensional-cats. This would make a superlative gift for a fantasy loving teen/tween and a good choice for a school or public library.

Five well deserved stars.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

[Erin Dydek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nothing but good to say about this book! Powerful themes of self acceptance and embracing change, well-developed relatable characters, magic and science, epic battle sequences, and a solid ending! I loved following Agnes as she discovered her talent. The author gave clues, and I figured it out before it was revealed, but this did not by any means diminish the moment or the suspense. The target audience is high school/teen-aged readers but as an adult I loved this book as well. No sexual content, swearing, or overly graphic scenes makes this book appropriate for even the most sensitive readers while remaining exciting and well-paced. Well-edited, and I’m very excited about the upcoming release of book two!!!


My full review is available on OnlineBookClub: https://forums.onlinebookclub.org/vie...


I received a review copy from OnlineBookClub.org. My opinions are my own.

[Caron Pescatore · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG! OMG! This Book is So Good! 😯😯🤯

OMG! I absolutely ADORED this book! It is amazing; the story kept enthralled from beginning to end! It's exciting, action-packed, and emotive. And it even includes a powerful lesson about loving yourself that anyone, young or old, can benefit from.

Agnes is a wonderful character, and I love how she evolved throughout the story from a self-effacing individual who struggles with self-loathing into a self-confident, selfless young woman who finally accepts and appreciates her own worth. Temnon, too, is a wonderful character. He's brave, selfless, loyal, and kind. I would be hard-pressed to say which of the two was my favorite.

Beautifully written, with well-drawn characters and a thoroughly engrossing story. You can't ask for more from any book. I've told my 14-year-old that this is a must-read! Yes, this book is perfectly appropriate for younger teens.😁😁 Enjoy!

[Charlie · Rating 5 out of 5]

* I received a free copy of this book from the author via voracious readers only in exchange for an honest review*
This was such a fun and innocent story full of magic friendship and courage. It has some really great characters in it and it’s got dragons. Who doesn’t love dragons?! But seriously there was some great world building, story pacing and character development that it was really easy and enjoyable to read. It’s so good that at the time of writing this review I have already started the second book in this series which I will get back to now!

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was one unbelievable and enjoyable story. Agnes has been different all her life but things get stranger. You won’t be able to stop reading.

[H.A. Pruitt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Agnes dislikes herself and her scars that never healed from an accident when she was a baby. She has let most of her life be defined by her scars, but when she starts to translate an ancient tablet--or is it ancient--everything changes. Agnes is thrown into First Earth with a talking cat and a wizard who she suspects is not being entirely truthful.
It doesn't take long for Agnes to realize the truth about who she truly is.
First Earth is a young adult fantasy that is fast-paced, full of wit, and encourages the readers to consider who they truly are.

Positives
Very fun, creative, and imaginative
I enjoyed Agnes's wit. Her thoughts and phrases kept me chuckling.
I read it quickly because the action went very swiftly and I wanted to know what would happen next.
The part with Agnes and Dominath was my favorite part. Agnes was forced to consider how her view of herself affects others.

Negatives
I liked the characters, especially Grimmel. The characters were believable, but the relationships developed way too fast. Agnes says she is socially awkward but speaks well with others and makes friends with Timnon very quickly. Also, I wasn't sure if Agnes was college age or a preteen.
The pace of the whole book was really fast, which isn't necessarily bad, but Agnes is thrown into many alien concepts and picks up everything almost unbelievably quickly.

Overall, I give First Earth 4 stars
It is a very fun and immerses the reader in a unique fantasy world.

[Marion Craggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book from the author via vorocious readers in return for an honest review.
This is a magical fantasy book for young adults and I woukd recommend it for this group but also for an adult looking for a relatively light read.
Many free books have a lot of mistakes in them but this one is well written with very few mistakes. There is a good use of descriptive language particularly when describing the characteristics of the inhabitants of different earths and indeed the earths themselves.
The main character Agnes is developed in great depth and has many issues which teens and young adults could relate to she is also very likeable and stronger than she realises. Many of the other characters are also well developed and have traits which could well be similar to people already known to the reader.
I have enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to others

[Lost Within The Pages · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my god, I absolutely loved this book. I love fantasy books and this book more than delivered. It went way above and beyond my expectations and I absolutely loved it. I would wholeheartedly recommend to other fantasy lovers. A little hint, it certainly takes you to a whole other world. ;)

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

She is different to everyone around her, she has scars and nerve damage to her legs as well as being able sense when someone is lying. She can read any language even if she cannot speak it. She goes to help translate a tablet in a strange language but she is attack. She is then taken to a strange world. What will happen there? Can she get back home? See how this new adventure take her

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michelle Hogmire · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review originally published here at Reedsy Discovery: https://reedsy.com/discovery/book/fir...

A young burn victim learns that she's a powerful wizard and becomes an unlikely hero in Book One of the Arch Mage Series.

"My only use in life was to hide in a library and read dead languages to a blind man." This is how Agnes Ann Cavanaugh--the main character of Cami Murdock Jensen's YA fantasy book First Earth--views herself. Agnes is a talented 16-year-old, recruited by Dr. James R. Buchanan to translate ancient texts as a summer intern at Boston University, but she's also a self-critical burn victim. Agnes was injured in a fire as a child, and her father died protecting her. She carries this burden as scars on her face that, mysteriously, never quite seem to heal. But, of course, Agnes is much more than she appears.

When Dr. Buchanan asks Agnes to read a tablet from the ancient Jamdat Nasrian civilization, everything goes haywire. A woman, seemingly possessed by a spirit, almost kills Agnes, but an old man appears and whisks her away just in time. Turns out, the tablet is actually an Aether Stone--an object that opens up portals, called Jent Paths, between worlds. The old man is a young wizard in disguise--Temnon, the Arch Mage of First Earth. Earth, as we know it, is Second Earth--only one of many. And Agnes is a formidable wizard.

Before she knows it, Agnes is sucked into the middle of an interplanetary magical war. The commanding King Odric's wayward daughter Nemantia has been draining the magic from wizards, leaving only ashes behind and increasing her own power. With the fate of all the Earths on the line, Agnes must harness her own magical abilities and use them to uncover the truth about Nemantia's betrayal. Along the way, she encounters a wonderfully imaginative cast of characters, including a telepathic dragon of knowledge named Dominath, and Grimmal--a snarky shape-shifting cat called a sciftan.

Although Jensen's novel does have some similarities to The Golden Compass, the book is overall a wildly creative, inspiring tale about hardship and personal acceptance. Agnes dislikes herself and her scars, and she experiences chronic nerve pain. While she realizes early on that being connected with magic soothes her illness, Agnes struggles to understand her powers. It's only when she truly learns to love herself that things become clear. This is a beautiful uplifting message about the power of self-discovery, and an important lesson for young readers to learn. For this reason, I'd pitch this book at middle grade readers: Agnes is the perfect hero for a complicated, difficult age.

[Andrea Flansburg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great young adult fantasy book. I found the writing superb. Once i started reading, i had a hard time putting it down. I loved the story. I would recommend this book for all ages. Can't wait to read the next upcoming book.

[A Mac · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I've read in awhile! The characters grow and develop throughout the work and it doesn't take long to become invested in the protagonist. The world(s) are interesting and the way they're entertwined is a cool concept. This story includes magic, fantastical creatures, and kind of a steam punk feel.
I highly recommend this book for young adults - there's absolutely nothing innapropriate in it and it's still quite entertaining even for adults. Highly recommend!

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Earth (Arch Mage series book 1) by Cami Murdock Jensen is a 5 star read.
Agnes Ann Cavanaugh is 16 years years old and covered in scars from an accident when she was a baby in which her father died saving her life. She has come to Boston to intern for Dr Buchanan a blind history professor at Boston University in the hopes of gaining a scholarship, when an exciting tablet arrives from England, Agnes and the Dr go to look at it hoping Agnes will be able to read it, when she touches the tablet everything changes for her and she finds her destiny is much bigger than she thought. Along the way she meets Temnon a high mage of another Earth and his talking cat Grimmal who is much more than your average feline.
I loved this story, it captured my attention from the very first page and I struggled to put it down, my only disappointment is having to wait for the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed a gifted copy of this book.

[Lisa Whitehead · Rating 5 out of 5]

An original and interesting storyline. A pleasure to read.
This was a book I found I could not put down; I like originality in a story.
Lately I have found too many stories with pages of the same thing over and over, not the case with this plot, where it seems action packed.

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading this book, I wanted to write and post this review to share my honest experiences toward the story. This is an enjoyable, fast paced fantasy starring our young heroine, Agnes, a girl who suffered major burns in a fire while still an infant, scarred all over, and unable to lead a normal life due to her condition and all the medications. She is a capable heroine with a strong story was really enjoyable! All the characters were great, the parallel world was incredible, and a satisfying ending. i am looking forward to continuing Agnes’ adventure.

[Steph · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Earth by Cami Murdock Jensen, the first in the Arch Mage series would absolutely be a read for young teens and young adults, and even more so for those struggling with self acceptance and self belief.

Her raging scars and chronic pain made her different. Her courage made her savior of 2 worlds
The start of the description on GoodReads spoke to me loudly and I just had to read this book. I was not disappointed.


Writing Style: 9/10
Storyline: 8/10
Ease of Reading: 9.5/10

This book isn't my usual genre, but I loved going back to my childhood for a day to read this one. The magic within is so creative, and will capture the audience, and would, in my opinion, be good enough for a child to believe in themselves. The language is easy to follow, and I know my 11 year old nephew would love the book. The love between Agnes and Temnon, despite the almost unbelievable setting is heartwarming and gives me hope that love will always prevail.

Despite the fact that I am now 30 years old, I'm glad I read this book, to enforce my belief that no matter your circumstances, everyone has great power within them.

Overall, an amazing book that I have had the pleasure to review. Note, this is the start of a series, so I very much will like to read the next (Second Earth). I also recommend that any child struggling with pain, disability or self doubt is given this book!

(taken from my blog - https://gianttortoisereads.blogspot.com)

[Rennie Girl Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let's Get the Next One going

I'll admit I was skeptical. The cover didn't draw me in, but this is an AMAZING book! There is not a part I didn't like. Shapeshifting cats, doors to whatever you imagine, and an evil princess to defeat yes please!
The main character was relatable and to watch her grow and change was inspiring. Tennis was a great character to see him encourage her to find the real her.
I could read this again and will be recommending it to a few people. On to the next!

[Monique Armstrong · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from Voracious Readers Only and asked to give a review.

Loved this story, moved along very well, was well written. A lovely fantasy story with some history thrown in with it. I look forward to reading the rest of the series and will be recommending them to our school library.

[Csimplot Simplot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book!!

[Louise A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have Mage Will Travel

I really enjoyed this book. It is a combination of Alice in Wonderland, Mage magic, magic wormholes and all sorts of fantasy creatures. I am looking forward to the next step in Agnes' "universal travel". Great read for any age.

I was given a free copy of First Earth by Voracious Readers Only for a fair review.

[Billy Buttons · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: First Earth
Author: Cami Murdock Jensen

Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 16
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 9/10
Content: 10/10
Cover: 8/10
Of the 16 readers:
16 would read another book by this author.
13 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
16 would recommend this story to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 10 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
16 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
16 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.

Readers’ Comments
‘I loved this book so much. I loved that the girl had physical problems but could still be the hero of the book. Very exciting with a fab ending. I’m going to read the next book.’ Girl reader, aged 15
‘I think Harry Potter fans will like this book. It’s different to the boy wizard books but there’s still a ton of magic in it. First Earth is an amazing setting too. Very fast paced with interesting characters, this is perfect for fantasy readers aged 12 – 16.’ Boy, aged 16
‘Everything you need in a fantasy adventure: peril, cool – rather odd – characters, a twisting plot and lots of magic. Enjoyable read.’ Girl, aged 15
‘Loved it. I will read the next book.’ Girl ,aged 13

To Sum It Up:
‘An epic fantasy adventure full of twists and turns. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards

[Amy Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Earth grabbed our interest from the very first chapter. My 10 yr old grandson and I read it together before bedtime. The characters were captivating and multifaceted and well rounded. The decriptions of each character made it easy to get to know them and left us wanting to learn more about them. I especially like that the main female character suffered pain daily and how it impacted her during her adventures. This First Earth book is comparable to JK Rowlings' Harry Potter series in the intrigue and how well written it is. We can't wait to dive into Second Earth!

[Megan Forrest · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Earth is the first in a new series targeted at teens/YA, but is enjoyable for everyone who enjoys reading fantasy. It is a part coming of age, but more coming to terms with oneself, exploring friendship, truth, responsibility and much more. That being said (it makes it sound so serious!), this is a fun adventure - the intriguing plot will draw you in. If you 'suffer' from the problem of not being able to put a good book down, then reserve time to read this through. The concept is interesting and the mix of science and magic is very enjoyable. The characters are well-developed and multidimensional, not only will you want to keep reading to find out what happens to them, but you will also look forward to the next book and next adventure!

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Make sure you have plenty of spare time, a comfy place to sit, and a hot drink on hand when you open this book. I could not put it down! This is an EXCELLENT book; I HIGHLY recommend it! The story is unique, fun, and captivating. I love how it is told from the heroine's point of view, and I loved watching her learn about herself and grow through each crazy experience that she inadvertently finds herself in. One of the many great themes in this book is learning to love yourself for who you are, scars and all. Beautifully done; a marvelous piece of work!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Voracious Readers Only*

[Keith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engaging Fantasy

Great read for girls of all ages, but also for any boy that enjoys dragons, epic battles, and the possibilities of magic! Easy engaging read. I look forward to the rest of the series

This story is refreshingly clean. I have often found fantasy books tend to have some part or topic inappropriate for the young. Kudos for making a fantasy story that can be read at bedtime to a pre-teen without censure, but hold the attention of an adult.

[Richard Goodrum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightfully unique story. At least it seems to have rather unique features. Agnes is great. Temnon is a bit impersonal. Many predictable and unpredictable events.

Action-packed. Entertaining. Great world building. Happily Ever After. Informative. Inspirational. Original. Page-turner. Scary. Tear-jerker. Tragic. Twisted. Wonderful characters.

I received a copy of this book as a gift.  This is my honest review.

[Steve Filson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantastic Adventure

Excellent adventure ,magical journey,Inspiring. As an Honest ARC reviewer this series is good for everyone. Read this one. You won't be disappointed.